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Merrien M, Wasik AM, Melén CM, Morsy MHA, Sonnevi K, Junlén HR, Christensson B, Wahlin BE, Sander B. 2-Arachidonoylglycerol Modulates CXCL12-Mediated Chemotaxis in Mantle Cell Lymphoma and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15051585. [PMID: 36900374 PMCID: PMC10000973 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15051585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
To survive chemotherapy, lymphoma cells can relocate to protective niches where they receive support from the non-malignant cells. The biolipid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), an agonist for the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, is released by stromal cells in the bone marrow. To investigate the role of 2-AG in lymphoma, we analyzed the chemotactic response of primary B-cell lymphoma cells enriched from peripheral blood of twenty-two chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and five mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) patients towards 2-AG alone and/or to the chemokine CXCL12. The expression of cannabinoid receptors was quantified using qPCR and the protein levels visualized by immunofluorescence and Western blot. Surface expression of CXCR4, the main cognate receptor to CXCL12, was analyzed by flow cytometry. Phosphorylation of key downstream signaling pathways activated by 2-AG and CXCL12 were measured by Western blot in three MCL cell lines and two primary CLL samples. We report that 2-AG induces chemotaxis in 80% of the primary samples, as well as 2/3 MCL cell lines. 2-AG induced in a dose-dependent manner, the migration of JeKo-1 cell line via CB1 and CB2. 2-AG affected the CXCL12-mediated chemotaxis without impacting the expression or internalization of CXCR4. We further show that 2-AG modulated p38 and p44/42 MAPK activation. Our results suggest that 2-AG has a previously unrecognized role in the mobilization of lymphoma cells by effecting the CXCL12-induced migration and the CXCR4 signaling pathways, however, with different effects in MCL compared to CLL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magali Merrien
- Division of Pathology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (B.S.)
| | - Agata M. Wasik
- Division of Pathology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christopher M. Melén
- Division of Haematology, Department of Medicine at Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Unit of Haematology, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Kristina Sonnevi
- Division of Haematology, Department of Medicine at Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Unit of Haematology, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Henna-Riikka Junlén
- Division of Haematology, Department of Medicine at Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Unit of Haematology, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Birger Christensson
- Division of Pathology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Pathology and Cancer, Karolinska University Hospital, 141 86 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Björn E. Wahlin
- Division of Haematology, Department of Medicine at Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Unit of Haematology, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Birgitta Sander
- Division of Pathology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Pathology and Cancer, Karolinska University Hospital, 141 86 Stockholm, Sweden
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (B.S.)
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Lampron MC, Paré I, Al-Zharani M, Semlali A, Loubaki L. Cannabinoid Mixture Affects the Fate and Functions of B Cells through the Modulation of the Caspase and MAP Kinase Pathways. Cells 2023; 12:588. [PMID: 36831255 PMCID: PMC9954265 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis use is continuously increasing in Canada, raising concerns about its potential impact on immunity. The current study assessed the impact of a cannabinoid mixture (CM) on B cells and the mechanisms by which the CM exerts its potential anti-inflammatory properties. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were treated with different concentrations of the CM to evaluate cytotoxicity. In addition, flow cytometry was used to evaluate oxidative stress, antioxidant levels, mitochondrial membrane potential, apoptosis, caspase activation, and the activation of key signaling pathways (ERK1/2, NF-κB, STAT5, and p38). The number of IgM- and IgG-expressing cells was assessed using FluoroSpot, and the cytokine production profile of the B cells was explored using a cytokine array. Our results reveal that the CM induced B-cell cytotoxicity in a dose-dependent manner, which was mediated by apoptosis. The levels of ROS and those of the activated caspases, mitochondrial membrane potential, and DNA damage increased following exposure to the CM (3 µg/mL). In addition, the activation of MAP Kinase, STATs, and the NF-κB pathway and the number of IgM- and IgG-expressing cells were reduced following exposure to the CM. Furthermore, the exposure to the CM significantly altered the cytokine profile of the B cells. Our results suggest that cannabinoids have a detrimental effect on B cells, inducing caspase-mediated apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Claude Lampron
- Héma-Québec, Medical Affairs and Innovation, 1070 Avenue des Sciences-de-la-Vie, Québec, QC G1V 5C3, Canada
| | - Isabelle Paré
- Héma-Québec, Medical Affairs and Innovation, 1070 Avenue des Sciences-de-la-Vie, Québec, QC G1V 5C3, Canada
| | - Mohammed Al-Zharani
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdelhabib Semlali
- Groupe de Recherche en Écologie Buccale, Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Lionel Loubaki
- Héma-Québec, Medical Affairs and Innovation, 1070 Avenue des Sciences-de-la-Vie, Québec, QC G1V 5C3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Bioinformatics, Laval University, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
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Sánchez-Sanz A, Posada-Ayala M, Sabín-Muñoz J, Fernández-Miranda I, Aladro-Benito Y, Álvarez-Lafuente R, Royuela A, García-Hernández R, la Fuente ORD, Romero J, García-Merino A, Sánchez-López AJ. Endocannabinoid levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of multiple sclerosis patients treated with dimethyl fumarate. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20300. [PMID: 36434122 PMCID: PMC9700785 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-21807-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS), a signalling network with immunomodulatory properties, is a potential therapeutic target in multiple sclerosis (MS). Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is an approved drug for MS whose mechanism of action has not been fully elucidated; the possibility exists that its therapeutic effects could imply the ECS. With the aim of studying if DMF can modulate the ECS, the endocannabinoids 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), anandamide (AEA), oleoylethanolamide (OEA) and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) were determined by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 21 healthy donors (HD) and 32 MS patients at baseline and after 12 and 24 months of DMF treatment. MS patients presented lower levels of 2-AG and PEA compared to HD. 2-AG increased at 24 months, reaching HD levels. AEA and PEA remained stable at 12 and 24 months. OEA increased at 12 months and returned to initial levels at 24 months. Patients who achieved no evidence of disease activity (NEDA3) presented the same modulation over time as EDA3 patients. PEA was modulated differentially between females and males. Our results show that the ECS is dysregulated in MS patients. The increase in 2-AG and OEA during DMF treatment suggests a possible role of DMF in ECS modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Sánchez-Sanz
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Puerta de Hierro-Segovia de Arana, Madrid, Spain ,grid.5515.40000000119578126PhD Program in Molecular Biosciences, Doctoral School, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Posada-Ayala
- grid.449795.20000 0001 2193 453XFaculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julia Sabín-Muñoz
- grid.73221.350000 0004 1767 8416Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ismael Fernández-Miranda
- grid.5515.40000000119578126PhD Program in Molecular Biosciences, Doctoral School, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain ,Lymphoma Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Puerta de Hierro-Segovia de Arana, Madrid, Spain
| | - Yolanda Aladro-Benito
- grid.411244.60000 0000 9691 6072Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario de Getafe, Madrid, Spain
| | - Roberto Álvarez-Lafuente
- grid.414780.eGrupo de Investigación de Factores Ambientales en Enfermedades Degenerativas, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain ,grid.483890.e0000 0004 6095 7779Red Española de Esclerosis Múltiple (REEM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Royuela
- Clinical Biostatistics Unit, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Puerta de Hierro-Segovia de Arana, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ruth García-Hernández
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Puerta de Hierro-Segovia de Arana, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ofir Rodríguez-De la Fuente
- grid.73221.350000 0004 1767 8416Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julián Romero
- grid.449795.20000 0001 2193 453XFaculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio García-Merino
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Puerta de Hierro-Segovia de Arana, Madrid, Spain ,grid.73221.350000 0004 1767 8416Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain ,grid.483890.e0000 0004 6095 7779Red Española de Esclerosis Múltiple (REEM), Barcelona, Spain ,grid.5515.40000000119578126Department of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio José Sánchez-López
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Puerta de Hierro-Segovia de Arana, Madrid, Spain ,grid.483890.e0000 0004 6095 7779Red Española de Esclerosis Múltiple (REEM), Barcelona, Spain ,Biobank, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Puerta de Hierro-Segovia de Arana, Madrid, Spain
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Simard M, Rakotoarivelo V, Di Marzo V, Flamand N. Expression and Functions of the CB 2 Receptor in Human Leukocytes. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:826400. [PMID: 35273503 PMCID: PMC8902156 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.826400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The cannabinoid CB2 receptor was cloned from the promyeloid cell line HL-60 and is notably expressed in most, if not all leukocyte types. This relatively restricted localization, combined to the absence of psychotropic effects following its activation, make it an attractive drug target for inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Therefore, there has been an increasing interest in the past decades to identify precisely which immune cells express the CB2 receptor and what are the consequences of such activation. Herein, we provide new data on the expression of both CB1 and CB2 receptors by human blood leukocytes and discuss the impact of CB2 receptor activation in human leukocytes. While the expression of the CB2 mRNA can be detected in eosinophils, neutrophils, monocytes, B and T lymphocytes, this receptor is most abundant in human eosinophils and B lymphocytes. We also review the evidence obtained from primary human leukocytes and immortalized cell lines regarding the regulation of their functions by the CB2 receptor, which underscore the urgent need to deepen our understanding of the CB2 receptor as an immunoregulator in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélissa Simard
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Département of Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.,Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health (CERC-MEND), Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Volatiana Rakotoarivelo
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Département of Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.,Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health (CERC-MEND), Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Département of Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.,Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health (CERC-MEND), Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.,Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (CNR), Pozzuoli, Italy.,Institut sur la Nutrition et les Aliments Fonctionnels, Centre NUTRISS, École de Nutrition, Faculté des Sciences de L'agriculture et de L'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.,Joint International Unit Between the Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (Italy) and Université Laval (Canada) on Chemical and Biomolecular Research on the Microbiome and Its Impact on Metabolic Health and Nutrition (UMI-MicroMeNu), Naples, Italy
| | - Nicolas Flamand
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Département of Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.,Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health (CERC-MEND), Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
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Jayarajan S, Meissler JJ, Adler MW, Eisenstein TK. A Cannabinoid 2-Selective Agonist Inhibits Allogeneic Skin Graft Rejection In Vivo. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:804950. [PMID: 35185546 PMCID: PMC8850832 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.804950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous work from our laboratory showed that a CB2 selective agonist, O-1966, blocked the proliferative response of C57BL/6 mouse spleen cells exposed to spleen cells of C3HeB/FeJ mice in vitro in the mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR). The MLR is widely accepted as an in vitro correlate of in vivo grant rejection. Mechanisms of the immunosuppression induced by the cannabinoid were explored, and it was shown that O-1966 in this in vitro assay induced CD25+Foxp3+ Treg cells and IL-10, as well as down-regulated mRNA for CD40 and the nuclear form of the transcription factors NF-κB and NFAT in T-cells. The current studies tested the efficacy of O-1966 in prolonging skin grafts in vivo. Full thickness flank skin patches (1-cm2) from C3HeB/FeJ mice were grafted by suturing onto the back of C57BL/6 mice. O-1966 or vehicle was injected intraperitoneally into treated or control groups of animals beginning 1 h pre-op, and then every other day until 14 days post-op. Graft survival was scored based on necrosis and rejection. Treatment with 5 mg/kg of O-1966 prolonged mean graft survival time from 9 to 11 days. Spleens harvested from O-1966 treated mice were significantly smaller than those of vehicle control animals based on weight. Flow cytometry analysis of CD4+ spleen cells showed that O-1966 treated animals had almost a 3-fold increase in CD25+Foxp3+ Treg cells compared to controls. When dissociated spleen cells were placed in culture ex vivo and stimulated with C3HeB/FeJ cells in an MLR, the cells from the O-1966 treated mice were significantly suppressed in their proliferative response to the allogeneic cells. These results support CB2 selective agonists as a new class of compounds to prolong graft survival in transplant patients.
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Liu QR, Aseer KR, Yao Q, Zhong X, Ghosh P, O’Connell JF, Egan JM. Anti-Inflammatory and Pro-Autophagy Effects of the Cannabinoid Receptor CB2R: Possibility of Modulation in Type 1 Diabetes. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:809965. [PMID: 35115945 PMCID: PMC8804091 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.809965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease resulting from loss of insulin-secreting β-cells in islets of Langerhans. The loss of β-cells is initiated when self-tolerance to β-cell-derived contents breaks down, which leads to T cell-mediated β-cell damage and, ultimately, β-cell apoptosis. Many investigations have demonstrated the positive effects of antagonizing cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) in metabolic diseases such as fatty liver disease, obesity, and diabetes mellitus, but the role of cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2R) in such diseases is relatively unknown. Activation of CB2R is known for its immunosuppressive roles in multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s, celiac, and lupus diseases, and since autoimmune diseases can share common environmental and genetic factors, we propose CB2R specific agonists may also serve as disease modifiers in diabetes mellitus. The CNR2 gene, which encodes CB2R protein, is the result of a gene duplication of CNR1, which encodes CB1R protein. This ortholog evolved rapidly after transitioning from invertebrates to vertebrate hundreds of million years ago. Human specific CNR2 isoforms are induced by inflammation in pancreatic islets, and a CNR2 nonsynonymous SNP (Q63R) is associated with autoimmune diseases. We collected evidence from the literature and from our own studies demonstrating that CB2R is involved in regulating the inflammasome and especially release of the cytokine interleukin 1B (IL-1β). Furthermore, CB2R activation controls intracellular autophagy and may regulate secretion of extracellular vesicles from adipocytes that participate in recycling of lipid droplets, dysregulation of which induces chronic inflammation and obesity. CB2R activation may play a similar role in islets of Langerhans. Here, we will discuss future strategies to unravel what roles, if any, CB2R modifiers potentially play in T1DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Rong Liu
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Qing-Rong Liu, ; Josephine M. Egan,
| | - Kanikkai Raja Aseer
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Qin Yao
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Xiaoming Zhong
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Paritosh Ghosh
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jennifer F. O’Connell
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Josephine M. Egan
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Qing-Rong Liu, ; Josephine M. Egan,
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Rahaman O, Ganguly D. Endocannabinoids in immune regulation and immunopathologies. Immunology 2021; 164:242-252. [PMID: 34053085 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids are key bioactive components of the endocannabinoid system, and the profound influence of endocannabinoids on the modulation of the immune system is being increasingly appreciated. The knowledge of endocannabinoid-immune cell crosstalk will pave the way to therapeutic implications of modulators of this pathway in autoimmune and chronic inflammatory disorders. Endocannabinoids seem to exert both anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory effects in specific contexts, based on specific receptor engagement and the downstream signalling pathways involved. In this review, we summarized the biosynthesis, signalling and degradation of two well-studied endocannabinoids-anandamide and 2-arachidonylglycerol in immune cells. Then, we discussed the effects of these two endocannabinoids on the functioning of major innate and adaptive immune cells, along with the choice of receptors employed in such interactions. Finally, we outline our current knowledge on the involvement of anandamide and 2-arachidonylglycerol in context of inflammation, allergies, autoimmunity and metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oindrila Rahaman
- Dendritic Cell Biology Laboratory, IICB-Translational Research Unit of Excellence, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India
| | - Dipyaman Ganguly
- Dendritic Cell Biology Laboratory, IICB-Translational Research Unit of Excellence, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India
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Kasatkina LA, Rittchen S, Sturm EM. Neuroprotective and Immunomodulatory Action of the Endocannabinoid System under Neuroinflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115431. [PMID: 34063947 PMCID: PMC8196612 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs) are lipid-based retrograde messengers with a relatively short half-life that are produced endogenously and, upon binding to the primary cannabinoid receptors CB1/2, mediate multiple mechanisms of intercellular communication within the body. Endocannabinoid signaling is implicated in brain development, memory formation, learning, mood, anxiety, depression, feeding behavior, analgesia, and drug addiction. It is now recognized that the endocannabinoid system mediates not only neuronal communications but also governs the crosstalk between neurons, glia, and immune cells, and thus represents an important player within the neuroimmune interface. Generation of primary endocannabinoids is accompanied by the production of their congeners, the N-acylethanolamines (NAEs), which together with N-acylneurotransmitters, lipoamino acids and primary fatty acid amides comprise expanded endocannabinoid/endovanilloid signaling systems. Most of these compounds do not bind CB1/2, but signal via several other pathways involving the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α and non-cannabinoid G-protein coupled receptors (GPRs) to mediate anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and neuroprotective activities. In vivo generation of the cannabinoid compounds is triggered by physiological and pathological stimuli and, specifically in the brain, mediates fine regulation of synaptic strength, neuroprotection, and resolution of neuroinflammation. Here, we review the role of the endocannabinoid system in intrinsic neuroprotective mechanisms and its therapeutic potential for the treatment of neuroinflammation and associated synaptopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludmila A. Kasatkina
- Otto Loewi Research Center, Division of Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (L.A.K.); (S.R.)
- Department of Anatomy and Structural Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Sonja Rittchen
- Otto Loewi Research Center, Division of Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (L.A.K.); (S.R.)
| | - Eva M. Sturm
- Otto Loewi Research Center, Division of Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (L.A.K.); (S.R.)
- Correspondence:
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Tang Y, Wolk B, Nolan R, Scott CE, Kendall DA. Characterization of Subtype Selective Cannabinoid CB 2 Receptor Agonists as Potential Anti-Inflammatory Agents. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:378. [PMID: 33921589 DOI: 10.3390/ph14040378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of the CB2 receptor has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects without causing psychoactive effects. Previously, we reported that the compound ethyl 2(2-(N-(2,3-dimethylphenyl) phenylsulfonamido)acetamido)benzoate (ABK5) is a CB2 subtype selective agonist with anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects. In the present study, we tested four ABK5 derivatives, ABK5-1, ABK5-2, ABK5-5, and ABK5-6, to analyze the structure of ABK5 to obtain CB2-selective agonists with higher affinity and efficacy. Affinity, subtype selectivity, and G-protein coupling were determined by radioligand binding assays. Selected compounds were then subjected to evaluation of anti-inflammatory effects using two different cell lines, Jurkat (ABK5-1 and 5-2) and BV-2 cells (ABK5-1), which are models of T cells and microglia, respectively. ABK5-1, ABK5-2, and ABK5-6 had comparable CB2 binding affinity with ABK5 (and stimulated G-protein coupling), while only ABK5-1 and ABK5-2 maintained CB2-subtype selectivity. ABK5-5 did not bind CB2 in the detectable range. RT-PCR and ELISA analysis showed that the two compounds also inhibit IL-2 and TNF-α production, and they were more efficacious than ABK5 in inhibiting TNF-α production. CXCL-12 mediated chemotaxis was also evaluated by the transwell migration assay, and both ABK5-1 and ABK5-2 inhibited chemotaxis with a stronger effect observed in ABK5-1. In the microglia cell line BV-2, ABK5-1 inhibited IL-1β and IL-6 production, which suggests this compound has anti-inflammatory effects through targeting multiple immune cells, and may be a candidate for treatment of inflammation.
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Tang Y, Wolk B, Britch SC, Craft RM, Kendall DA. Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of the selective cannabinoid CB 2 receptor agonist ABK5. J Pharmacol Sci 2021; 145:319-326. [PMID: 33712283 PMCID: PMC8376191 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphs.2020.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptors are a potential target for anti-inflammatory and pain therapeutics. There are two subtypes, CB1 and CB2, and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol activates both of them, providing an analgesic effect but also psychoactive side effects. The psychoactive side effects are considered to be caused by activation of CB1, but not CB2. ABK5 is a CB2 subtype selective agonist that has a very different structure from known cannabinoid receptor agonists. Here, we report anti-inflammatory effects of ABK5 using the T-cell line Jurkat cells, and antinociceptive effect in an inflammatory pain model in rats. Production of the cytokines IL-2 and TNF-α was measured in stimulated Jurkat cells and MOLT-4 cells, and CXCL12-mediated chemotaxis of Jurkat cells was evaluated by a transwell migration assay. Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of ABK5 were also evaluated in a hindpaw CFA model in rats. ABK5 significantly decreased production of IL-2 and TNF-α measured as both mRNA and protein levels, and reduced chemotaxis towards CXCL12. It also attenuated edema and increased mechanical threshold in the hindpaw of CFA-treated rats. These results suggest that ABK5 is a good lead compound for the development of potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaliang Tang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Barbara Wolk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Stevie C Britch
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Rebecca M Craft
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Debra A Kendall
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA.
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Laksmidewi AAAP, Soejitno A. Endocannabinoid and dopaminergic system: the pas de deux underlying human motivation and behaviors. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2021; 128:615-630. [PMID: 33712975 PMCID: PMC8105194 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-021-02326-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoid system (ECS) has been identified ever since cannabinoid, an active substance of Cannabis, was known to interact with endogenous cannabinoid (endocannabinoid/eCB) receptors. It later turned out that eCB was more intricate than previously thought. It has a pervasive role and exerts a multitude of cellular signaling mechanisms, regulating various physiological neurotransmission pathways in the human brain, including the dopaminergic (DA) system. eCB roles toward DA system were robust, clearly delineated, and reproducible with respect to physiological as well as pathological neurochemical and neurobehavioral manifestations of DA system, particularly those involving the nigrostriatal and mesocorticolimbic pathways. The eCB–DA system regulates the basics in the Maslow’s pyramid of hierarchy of needs required for individual survival such as food and sexual activity for reproductive purpose to those of higher needs in the pyramid, including self-actualization behaviors leading to achievement and reward (e.g., academic- and/or work-related performance and achievements). It is, thus, interesting to specifically discuss the eCB–DA system, not only on the molecular level, but also its tremendous potential to be developed as a future therapeutic strategy for various neuropsychiatric problems, including obesity, drug addiction and withdrawal, pathological hypersexuality, or low motivation behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A A Putri Laksmidewi
- Neurobehavioral and Cognitive Division, Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University/Sanglah Hospital, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia.
| | - Andreas Soejitno
- Neurobehavioral and Cognitive Division, Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University/Sanglah Hospital, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
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Sharma DS, Paddibhatla I, Raghuwanshi S, Malleswarapu M, Sangeeth A, Kovuru N, Dahariya S, Gautam DK, Pallepati A, Gutti RK. Endocannabinoid system: Role in blood cell development, neuroimmune interactions and associated disorders. J Neuroimmunol 2021; 353:577501. [PMID: 33571815 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2021.577501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex physiological network involved in creating homeostasis and maintaining human health. Studies of the last 40 years have shown that endocannabinoids (ECs), a group of bioactive lipids, together with their set of receptors, function as one of the most important physiologic systems in human body. ECs and cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) are found throughout the body: in the brain tissues, immune cells, and in the peripheral organs and tissues as well. In recent years, ECs have emerged as key modulators of affect, neurotransmitter release, immune function, and several other physiological functions. This modulatory homoeostatic system operates in the regulation of brain activity and states of physical health and disease. In several research studies and patents the ECS has been recognised with neuro-protective properties thus it might be a target in neurodegenerative diseases. Most immune cells express these bioactive lipids and their receptors, recent data also highlight the immunomodulatory effects of endocannabinoids. Interplay of immune and nervous system has been recognized in past, recent studies suggest that ECS function as a bridge between neuronal and immune system. In several ongoing clinical trial studies, the ECS has also been placed in the anti-cancer drugs spotlight. This review summarizes the literature of cannabinoid ligands and their biosynthesis, cannabinoid receptors and their distribution, and the signaling pathways initiated by the binding of cannabinoid ligands to cannabinoid receptors. Further, this review highlights the functional role of cannabinoids and ECS in blood cell development, neuroimmune interactions and associated disorders. Moreover, we highlight the current state of knowledge of cannabinoid ligands as the mediators of neuroimmune interactions, which can be therapeutically effective for neuro-immune disorders and several diseases associated with neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Durga Shankar Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Indira Paddibhatla
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Sanjeev Raghuwanshi
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Mahesh Malleswarapu
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Anjali Sangeeth
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Narasaiah Kovuru
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Swati Dahariya
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Dushyant Kumar Gautam
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Aditya Pallepati
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Ravi Kumar Gutti
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India.
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Saroz Y, Kho DT, Glass M, Graham ES, Grimsey NL. Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB 2) Signals via G-alpha-s and Induces IL-6 and IL-10 Cytokine Secretion in Human Primary Leukocytes. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2019; 2:414-428. [PMID: 32259074 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.9b00049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) is a promising therapeutic target for immunological modulation. There is, however, a deficit of knowledge regarding CB2 signaling and function in human primary immunocompetent cells. We applied an experimental paradigm which closely models the in situ state of human primary leukocytes (PBMC; peripheral blood mononuclear cells) to characterize activation of a number of signaling pathways in response to a CB2-selective ligand (HU308). We observed a "lag" phase of unchanged cAMP concentration prior to development of classically expected Gαi-mediated inhibition of cAMP synthesis. Application of G protein inhibitors revealed that this apparent lag was a result of counteraction of Gαi effects by concurrent Gαs activation. Monitoring downstream signaling events showed that activation of p38 was mediated by Gαi, whereas ERK1/2 and Akt phosphorylation were mediated by Gαi-coupled βγ. Activation of CREB integrated multiple components; Gαs and βγ mediated ∼85% of the response, while ∼15% was attributed to Gαi. Responses to HU308 had an important functional outcome-secretion of interleukins 6 (IL-6) and 10 (IL-10). IL-2, IL-4, IL-12, IL-13, IL-17A, MIP-1α, and TNF-α were unaffected. IL-6/IL-10 induction had a similar G protein coupling profile to CREB activation. All response potencies were consistent with that expected for HU308 acting via CB2. Additionally, signaling and functional effects were completely blocked by a CB2-selective inverse agonist, giving additional evidence for CB2 involvement. This work expands the current paradigm regarding cannabinoid immunomodulation and reinforces the potential utility of CB2 ligands as immunomodulatory therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yurii Saroz
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, and Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand.,Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, and Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand
| | - Dan T Kho
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, and Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand.,Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, and Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9016, New Zealand
| | - Euan Scott Graham
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, and Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand.,Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, and Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand
| | - Natasha Lillia Grimsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, and Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand.,Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, and Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand
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14
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Sheng WS, Chauhan P, Hu S, Prasad S, Lokensgard JR. Antiallodynic Effects of Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB 2R) Agonists on Retrovirus Infection-Induced Neuropathic Pain. Pain Res Manag 2019; 2019:1260353. [PMID: 31354896 DOI: 10.1155/2019/1260353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The most common neurological complication in patients receiving successful combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) is peripheral neuropathic pain. Data show that distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSP) also develops along with murine acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (MAIDS) after infection with the LP-BM5 murine retrovirus mixture. Links between cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2R) and peripheral neuropathy have been established in animal models using nerve transection, chemotherapy-induced pain, and various other stimuli. Diverse types of neuropathic pain respond differently to standard drug intervention, and little is currently known regarding the effects of modulation through CB2Rs. In this study, we evaluated whether treatment with the exogenous synthetic CB2R agonists JWH015, JWH133, Gp1a, and HU308 controls neuropathic pain and neuroinflammation in animals with chronic retroviral infection. Hind-paw mechanical hypersensitivity in CB2R agonist-treated versus untreated animals was assessed using the MouseMet electronic von Frey system. Multicolor flow cytometry was used to determine the effects of CB2R agonists on macrophage activation and T-lymphocyte infiltration into dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and lumbar spinal cord (LSC). Results demonstrated that, following weekly intraperitoneal injections starting at 5 wk p.i., JWH015, JWH133, and Gp1a, but not HU308 (5 mg/kg), significantly ameliorated allodynia when assessed 2 h after ligand injection. However, these same agonists (2x/wk) did not display antiallodynic effects when mechanical sensitivity was assessed 24 h after ligand injection. Infection-induced macrophage activation and T-cell infiltration into the DRG and LSC were observed at 12 wk p.i., but this neuroinflammation was not affected by treatment with any CB2R agonist. Activation of JAK/STAT3 has been shown to contribute to development of neuropathic pain in the LSC and pretreatment of primary murine microglia (2 h) with JWH015-, JWH133-, or Gp1a-blocked IFN-gamma-induced phosphorylation of STAT1 and STAT3. Taken together, these data show that CB2R agonists demonstrate acute, but not long-term, antiallodynic effects on retrovirus infection-induced neuropathic pain.
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Blanton HL, Brelsfoard J, DeTurk N, Pruitt K, Narasimhan M, Morgan DJ, Guindon J. Cannabinoids: Current and Future Options to Treat Chronic and Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathic Pain. Drugs 2019; 79:969-995. [PMID: 31127530 PMCID: PMC8310464 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-019-01132-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Increases in cancer diagnosis have tremendous negative impacts on patients and their families, and major societal and economic costs. The beneficial effect of chemotherapeutic agents on tumor suppression comes with major unwanted side effects such as weight and hair loss, nausea and vomiting, and neuropathic pain. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), which can include both painful and non-painful symptoms, can persist 6 months or longer after the patient's last chemotherapeutic treatment. These peripheral sensory and motor deficits are poorly treated by our current analgesics with limited effectiveness. Therefore, the development of novel treatment strategies is an important preclinical research focus and an urgent need for patients. Approaches to prevent CIPN have yielded disappointing results since these compounds may interfere with the anti-tumor properties of chemotherapeutic agents. Nevertheless, the first (serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors [SNRIs], anticonvulsants, tricyclic antidepressants) and second (5% lidocaine patches, 8% capsaicin patches and weak opioids such as tramadol) lines of treatment for CIPN have shown some efficacy. The clinical challenge of CIPN management in cancer patients and the need to target novel therapies with long-term efficacy in alleviating CIPN are an ongoing focus of research. The endogenous cannabinoid system has shown great promise and efficacy in alleviating CIPN in preclinical and clinical studies. In this review, we will discuss the mechanisms through which the platinum, taxane, and vinca alkaloid classes of chemotherapeutics may produce CIPN and the potential therapeutic effect of drugs targeting the endocannabinoid system in preclinical and clinical studies, in addition to cannabinoid compounds diffuse mechanisms of action in alleviation of CIPN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry L Blanton
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, 79430, USA
| | - Jennifer Brelsfoard
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, 79430, USA
| | - Nathan DeTurk
- Department of Anesthesiology and Department of Pharmacology, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Kevin Pruitt
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street STOP 6592, Lubbock, TX, 79430, USA
| | - Madhusudhanan Narasimhan
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, 79430, USA
| | - Daniel J Morgan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Department of Pharmacology, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Josée Guindon
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, 79430, USA.
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16
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Scott CE, Tang Y, Alt A, Burford NT, Gerritz SW, Ogawa LM, Zhang L, Kendall DA. Identification and biochemical analyses of selective CB 2 agonists. Eur J Pharmacol 2019; 854:1-8. [PMID: 30951717 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.03.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors are activated by Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, a psychoactive component of marijuana. The cannabinoid CB1 receptor is primarily located in the brain and is responsible for the psychoactive side effects, whereas the cannabinoid CB2 receptor is located in immune cells and is an attractive target for immune-related maladies. We identify small molecules that selectively bind to the cannabinoid CB2 receptor and can be further developed into therapeutics. The affinity of three molecules, ABK5, ABK6, and ABK7, to the cannabinoid CB2 receptor was determined with radioligand competition binding. The potency of G-protein coupling was determined with GTPγS binding. The three compounds bound selectively to the cannabinoid CB2 receptor, and no binding to the cannabinoid CB1 receptor was detected up to 10 μM. Immunoblotting studies show that the amount of ERK1/2 and MEK phosphorylation increased in a Gi/o-dependent manner. Furthermore, an immune cell line (Jurkat cells) was treated with ABK5, and as a result, inhibited cell proliferation. These three compounds are novel cannabinoid CB2 receptor agonists and hold promise to be further developed to treat inflammation and the often-associated pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin E Scott
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, 69 N Eagleville Rd, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Yaliang Tang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, 69 N Eagleville Rd, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Andrew Alt
- Bristol-Myers Squibb, Research and Development, 5 Research Parkway, Wallingford, CT, 06492, USA
| | - Neil T Burford
- Bristol-Myers Squibb, Research and Development, 5 Research Parkway, Wallingford, CT, 06492, USA
| | - Samuel W Gerritz
- Bristol-Myers Squibb, Research and Development, 5 Research Parkway, Wallingford, CT, 06492, USA
| | - Lisa M Ogawa
- Bristol-Myers Squibb, Research and Development, 5 Research Parkway, Wallingford, CT, 06492, USA
| | - Litao Zhang
- Bristol-Myers Squibb, Research and Development, 5 Research Parkway, Wallingford, CT, 06492, USA
| | - Debra A Kendall
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, 69 N Eagleville Rd, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA.
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Kapellos TS, Taylor L, Feuerborn A, Valaris S, Hussain MT, Rainger GE, Greaves DR, Iqbal AJ. Cannabinoid receptor 2 deficiency exacerbates inflammation and neutrophil recruitment. FASEB J 2019; 33:6154-6167. [PMID: 30799631 PMCID: PMC6629158 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201802524r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor (CB)2 is an immune cell–localized GPCR that has been hypothesized to regulate the magnitude of inflammatory responses. However, there is currently no consensus as to the mechanism by which CB2 mediates its anti-inflammatory effects in vivo. To address this question, we employed a murine dorsal air pouch model with wild-type and CB2−/− 8–12-wk-old female and male C57BL/6 mice and found that acute neutrophil and lymphocyte antigen 6 complex, locus Chi monocyte recruitment in response to Zymosan was significantly enhanced in CB2−/− mice. Additionally, levels of matrix metalloproteinase 9 and the chemokines C-C motif chemokine ligand (CCL)2, CCL4, and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10 in CB2−/− pouch exudates were elevated at earlier time points. Importantly, using mixed bone marrow chimeras, we revealed that the proinflammatory phenotype in CB2−/− mice is neutrophil-intrinsic rather than stromal cell–dependent. Indeed, neutrophils isolated from CB2−/− mice exhibited an enhanced migration-related transcriptional profile and increased adhesive phenotype, and treatment of human neutrophils with a CB2 agonist blocked their endothelial transmigration. Overall, we have demonstrated that CB2 plays a nonredundant role during acute neutrophil mobilization to sites of inflammation and, as such, it could represent a therapeutic target for the development of novel anti-inflammatory compounds to treat inflammatory human diseases.—Kapellos, T. S., Taylor, L., Feuerborn, A., Valaris, S., Hussain, M. T., Rainger, G. E., Greaves, D. R., Iqbal, A. J. Cannabinoid receptor 2 deficiency exacerbates inflammation and neutrophil recruitment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore S Kapellos
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Lewis Taylor
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander Feuerborn
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Sophia Valaris
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Mohammed T Hussain
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - G E Rainger
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - David R Greaves
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Asif J Iqbal
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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Szafran BN, Lee JH, Borazjani A, Morrison P, Zimmerman G, Andrzejewski KL, Ross MK, Kaplan BLF. Characterization of Endocannabinoid-Metabolizing Enzymes in Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells under Inflammatory Conditions. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23123167. [PMID: 30513753 PMCID: PMC6321211 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23123167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoid-metabolizing enzymes are downregulated in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in mice, which may serve as a negative feedback mechanism to increase endocannabinoid levels and reduce inflammation. Increased plasma levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) and decreased fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) activity in peripheral lymphocytes from individuals diagnosed with Huntington’s disease (HD) suggests that a similar negative feedback system between inflammation and the endocannabinoid system operates in humans. We investigated whether CpG- (unmethylated bacterial DNA) and LPS-induced IL-6 levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from non-HD and HD individuals modulated the activities of endocannabinoid hydrolases monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) and carboxylesterase (CES). Baseline plasma IL-6 levels and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) hydrolytic activity in PBMC lysates were not different in HD and non-HD individuals. Inhibition of MAGL and CES1 activity in PBMCs using the inhibitors JZL184 and WWL113, respectively, demonstrated that MAGL was the dominant 2-AG hydrolytic enzyme in PBMCs, regardless of disease state. Correlative analyses of 2-AG hydrolytic activity versus enzyme abundance confirmed this conclusion. Flow cytometric analysis of PBMCs showed that MAGL and CES1 were primarily expressed in monocytes and to a lesser extent in lymphocytes. In conclusion, these data suggest that IL-6 did not influence 2-AG hydrolytic activity in human PBMCs; however, monocytic MAGL was shown to be the predominant 2-AG hydrolytic enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany N Szafran
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, Department of Basic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39759, USA.
| | - Jung Hwa Lee
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, Department of Basic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39759, USA.
| | - Abdolsamad Borazjani
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, Department of Basic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39759, USA.
| | - Peter Morrison
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14627, USA.
| | - Grace Zimmerman
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14627, USA.
| | - Kelly L Andrzejewski
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14627, USA.
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14211, USA.
| | - Matthew K Ross
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, Department of Basic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39759, USA.
| | - Barbara L F Kaplan
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, Department of Basic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39759, USA.
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Shrestha N, Cuffe JSM, Hutchinson DS, Headrick JP, Perkins AV, McAinch AJ, Hryciw DH. Peripheral modulation of the endocannabinoid system in metabolic disease. Drug Discov Today 2018; 23:592-604. [PMID: 29331500 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2018.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Dysfunction of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) has been identified in metabolic disease. Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) is abundantly expressed in the brain but also expressed in the periphery. Cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) is more abundant in the periphery, including the immune cells. In obesity, global antagonism of overexpressed CB1 reduces bodyweight but leads to centrally mediated adverse psychological outcomes. Emerging research in isolated cultured cells or tissues has demonstrated that targeting the endocannabinoid system in the periphery alleviates the pathologies associated with metabolic disease. Further, peripheral specific cannabinoid ligands can reverse aspects of the metabolic phenotype. This Keynote review will focus on current research on the functionality of peripheral modulation of the ECS for the treatment of obesity.
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Poursharifi P, Madiraju SRM, Prentki M. Monoacylglycerol signalling and ABHD6 in health and disease. Diabetes Obes Metab 2017; 19 Suppl 1:76-89. [PMID: 28880480 DOI: 10.1111/dom.13008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Lipid metabolism dysregulation underlies chronic pathologies such as obesity, diabetes and cancer. Besides their role in structure and energy storage, lipids are also important signalling molecules regulating multiple biological functions. Thus, understanding the precise lipid metabolism enzymatic steps that are altered in some pathological conditions is helpful for designing better treatment strategies. Several monoacylglycerol (MAG) species are only recently being recognized as signalling lipid molecules in different tissues. Recent studies indicated the importance of the ubiquitously expressed serine hydrolase α/β-hydrolase domain 6 (ABHD6), which is a MAG hydrolase, in regulating signalling competent MAG in both central and peripheral tissues. The central and peripheral function of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol, which is a 2-MAG, and its breakdown by both ABHD6 and classical MAG lipase has been well documented. ABHD6 and its substrate MAG appear to be involved in the regulation of various physiological and pathological processes including insulin secretion, adipose browning, food intake, neurotransmission, autoimmune disorders, neurological and metabolic diseases as well as cancer. Diverse cellular targets such as mammalian unc13-1 (Munc13-1), PPARs, GPR119 and CB1/2 receptors, for MAG-mediated signalling processes have been proposed in different cell types. The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive summary of the current state of knowledge regarding ABHD6/MAG signalling and its possible therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pegah Poursharifi
- Departments of Nutrition, Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Montreal, and Montreal Diabetes Research Center, CRCHUM, Montreal, Canada
| | - Sri Ramachandra Murthy Madiraju
- Departments of Nutrition, Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Montreal, and Montreal Diabetes Research Center, CRCHUM, Montreal, Canada
| | - Marc Prentki
- Departments of Nutrition, Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Montreal, and Montreal Diabetes Research Center, CRCHUM, Montreal, Canada
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Miller S, Leishman E, Hu SS, Elghouche A, Daily L, Murataeva N, Bradshaw H, Straiker A. Harnessing the Endocannabinoid 2-Arachidonoylglycerol to Lower Intraocular Pressure in a Murine Model. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2017; 57:3287-96. [PMID: 27333182 PMCID: PMC4961057 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.16-19356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Cannabinoids, such as Δ9-THC, act through an endogenous signaling system in the vertebrate eye that reduces IOP via CB1 receptors. Endogenous cannabinoid (eCB) ligand, 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG), likewise activates CB1 and is metabolized by monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL). We investigated ocular 2-AG and its regulation by MAGL and the therapeutic potential of harnessing eCBs to lower IOP. Methods We tested the effect of topical application of 2-AG and MAGL blockers in normotensive mice and examined changes in eCB-related lipid species in the eyes and spinal cord of MAGL knockout (MAGL−/−) mice using high performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS/MS). We also examined the protein distribution of MAGL in the mouse anterior chamber. Results 2-Arachidonoyl glycerol reliably lowered IOP in a CB1- and concentration-dependent manner. Monoacylglycerol lipase is expressed prominently in nonpigmented ciliary epithelium. The MAGL blocker KML29, but not JZL184, lowered IOP. The ability of CB1 to lower IOP is not desensitized in MAGL−/− mice. Ocular monoacylglycerols, including 2-AG, are elevated in MAGL−/− mice but, in contrast to the spinal cord, arachidonic acid and prostaglandins are not changed. Conclusions Our data confirm a central role for MAGL in metabolism of ocular 2-AG and related lipid species, and that endogenous 2-AG can be harnessed to reduce IOP. The MAGL blocker KML29 has promise as a therapeutic agent, while JZL184 may have difficulty crossing the cornea. These data, combined with the relative specificity of MAGL for ocular monoacylglycerols and the lack of desensitization in MAGL−/− mice, suggest that the development of an optimized MAGL blocker offers therapeutic potential for treatment of elevated IOP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Miller
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Emma Leishman
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Sherry Shujung Hu
- Department of Psychology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Alhasan Elghouche
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Laura Daily
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Natalia Murataeva
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Heather Bradshaw
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Alex Straiker
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
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Turcotte C, Blanchet MR, Laviolette M, Flamand N. The CB 2 receptor and its role as a regulator of inflammation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2016; 73:4449-70. [PMID: 27402121 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-016-2300-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 327] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Revised: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The CB2 receptor is the peripheral receptor for cannabinoids. It is mainly expressed in immune tissues, highlighting the possibility that the endocannabinoid system has an immunomodulatory role. In this respect, the CB2 receptor was shown to modulate immune cell functions, both in cellulo and in animal models of inflammatory diseases. In this regard, numerous studies have reported that mice lacking the CB2 receptor have an exacerbated inflammatory phenotype. This suggests that therapeutic strategies aiming at modulating CB2 signaling could be promising for the treatment of various inflammatory conditions. Herein, we review the pharmacology of the CB2 receptor, its expression pattern, and the signaling pathways induced by its activation. We next examine the regulation of immune cell functions by the CB2 receptor and the evidence obtained from primary human cells, immortalized cell lines, and animal models of inflammation. Finally, we discuss the possible therapies targeting the CB2 receptor and the questions that remain to be addressed to determine whether this receptor could be a potential target to treat inflammatory disease.
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Robinson RH, Meissler JJ, Fan X, Yu D, Adler MW, Eisenstein TK. A CB2-Selective Cannabinoid Suppresses T-Cell Activities and Increases Tregs and IL-10. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2015; 10:318-32. [PMID: 25980325 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-015-9611-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 04/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
We have previously shown that agonists selective for the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2), including O-1966, inhibit the Mixed Lymphocyte Reaction (MLR), an in vitro correlate of organ graft rejection, predominantly through effects on T-cells. Current studies explored the mechanism of this immunosuppression by O-1966 using mouse spleen cells. Treatment with O-1966 dose-relatedly decreased levels of the active nuclear forms of the transcription factors NF-κB and NFAT in wild-type T-cells, but not T-cells from CB2 knockout (CB2R k/o) mice. Additionally, a gene expression profile of purified T-cells from MLR cultures generated using a PCR T-cell activation array showed that O-1966 decreased mRNA expression of CD40 ligand and CyclinD3, and increased mRNA expression of Src-like-adaptor 2 (SLA2), Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling 5 (SOCS5), and IL-10. The increase in IL-10 was confirmed by measuring IL-10 protein levels in MLR culture supernatants. Further, an increase in the percentage of regulatory T-cells (Tregs) was observed in MLR cultures. Pretreatment with anti-IL-10 resulted in a partial reversal of the inhibition of proliferation and blocked the increase of Tregs. Additionally, O-1966 treatment caused a dose-related decrease in the expression of CD4 in MLR cultures from wild-type, but not CB2R k/o, mice. These data support the potential of CB2-selective agonists as useful therapeutic agents to prolong graft survival in transplant patients, and strengthens their potential as a new class of immunosuppressive agents with broader applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca H Robinson
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Gasperi V, Evangelista D, Savini I, Del Principe D, Avigliano L, Maccarrone M, Catani MV. Downstream effects of endocannabinoid on blood cells: implications for health and disease. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:3235-52. [DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-1924-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Revised: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 05/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Eisenstein TK, Meissler JJ. Effects of Cannabinoids on T-cell Function and Resistance to Infection. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2015; 10:204-16. [PMID: 25876735 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-015-9603-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 03/13/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
This review examines the effects of cannabinoids on immune function, with a focus on effects on T-cells, as well as on resistance to infection. The paper considers the immune modulating capacity of marijuana, of ∆(9)-THC extracted from the marijuana plant, and synthetic cannabinoids. Of particular interest are synthetic compounds that are CB2 receptor (CB2R) selective agonists. As the CB2R is principally expressed on cells of the immune system, agonists that target this receptor, and not CB1 (which is mainly expressed on neurons), have the possibility of altering immune function without psychoactive effects. The overall conclusion of the studies discussed in this review is that cannabinoids that bind to the CB2 receptor, including ∆(9)-THC and CB2 selective agonists are immunosuppressive. The studies provide objective evidence for potentially beneficial effects of marijuana and ∆(9)-THC on the immune system in conditions where it is desirable to dampen immune responses. Evidence is also reviewed supporting the conclusion that these same compounds can sensitize to some infections through their immunosuppressive activities, but not to others. An emerging area of investigation that is reviewed is evidence to support the conclusion that CB2 selective agonists are a new class of immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory compounds that may have exceptional beneficial effects in a variety of conditions, such as autoimmune diseases and graft rejection, where it is desirable to dampen the immune response without psychoactive effects.
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Turcotte C, Chouinard F, Lefebvre JS, Flamand N. Regulation of inflammation by cannabinoids, the endocannabinoids 2-arachidonoyl-glycerol and arachidonoyl-ethanolamide, and their metabolites. J Leukoc Biol 2015; 97:1049-70. [PMID: 25877930 DOI: 10.1189/jlb.3ru0115-021r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
2-Arachidonoyl-glycerol (2-AG) and arachidonyl-ethanolamide (AEA) are endocannabinoids that have been implicated in many physiologic disorders, including obesity, metabolic syndromes, hepatic diseases, pain, neurologic disorders, and inflammation. Their immunomodulatory effects are numerous and are not always mediated by cannabinoid receptors, reflecting the presence of an arachidonic acid (AA) molecule in their structure, the latter being the precursor of numerous bioactive lipids that are pro- or anti-inflammatory. 2-AG and AEA can thus serve as a source of AA but can also be metabolized by most eicosanoid biosynthetic enzymes, yielding additional lipids. In this regard, enhancing endocannabinoid levels by using endocannabinoid hydrolysis inhibitors is likely to augment the levels of these lipids that could regulate inflammatory cell functions. This review summarizes the metabolic pathways involved in the biosynthesis and metabolism of AEA and 2-AG, as well as the biologic effects of the 2-AG and AEA lipidomes in the regulation of inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Turcotte
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ), Département de Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - François Chouinard
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ), Département de Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Julie S Lefebvre
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ), Département de Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Nicolas Flamand
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ), Département de Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
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Gui H, Tong Q, Qu W, Mao CM, Dai SM. The endocannabinoid system and its therapeutic implications in rheumatoid arthritis. Int Immunopharmacol 2015; 26:86-91. [PMID: 25791728 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2015.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Revised: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Since the discovery of the endogenous receptor for Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol, a main constituent of marijuana, the endocannabinoid system (comprising cannabinoid receptors and their endogenous ligands, as well as the enzymes involved in their metabolic processes) has been implicated as having multiple regulatory functions in many central and peripheral conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is an immune-mediated inflammatory disease that is associated with the involvement of many kinds of cells (such as fibroblastlike synoviocytes [FLSs], osteoclasts, T cells, B cells, and macrophages) and molecules (such as interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, matrix metalloproteinases [MMPs], and chemokines). Increasing evidence suggests that the endocannabinoid system, especially cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2), has an important role in the pathophysiology of RA. Many members of the endocannabinoid system are reported to inhibit synovial inflammation, hyperplasia, and cartilage destruction in RA. In particular, specific activation of CB2 may relieve RA by inhibiting not only the production of autoantibodies, proinflammatory cytokines, and MMPs, but also bone erosion, immune response mediated by T cells, and the proliferation of FLSs. In this review, we will discuss the possible functions of the endocannabinoid system in the modulation of RA, which may be a potential target for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Gui
- Department of Pharmacy, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China; Department of Rheumatology & Immunology, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiang Tong
- Department of Rheumatology & Immunology, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenchun Qu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Division of Pain Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Chen-Mei Mao
- Department of Pharmacy, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Sheng-Ming Dai
- Department of Rheumatology & Immunology, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China.
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Chandra LC, Kumar V, Torben W, Vande Stouwe C, Winsauer P, Amedee A, Molina PE, Mohan M. Chronic administration of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol induces intestinal anti-inflammatory microRNA expression during acute simian immunodeficiency virus infection of rhesus macaques. J Virol 2015; 89:1168-81. [PMID: 25378491 PMCID: PMC4300675 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01754-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2014] [Accepted: 10/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Recreational and medical use of cannabis among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals has increased in recent years. In simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV)-infected macaques, chronic administration of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) inhibited viral replication and intestinal inflammation and slowed disease progression. Persistent gastrointestinal disease/inflammation has been proposed to facilitate microbial translocation and systemic immune activation and promote disease progression. Cannabinoids including Δ9-THC attenuated intestinal inflammation in mouse colitis models and SIV-infected rhesus macaques. To determine if the anti-inflammatory effects of Δ9-THC involved differential microRNA (miRNA) modulation, we profiled miRNA expression at 14, 30, and 60 days postinfection (days p.i.) in the intestine of uninfected macaques receiving Δ9-THC (n=3) and SIV-infected macaques administered either vehicle (VEH/SIV; n=4) or THC (THC/SIV; n=4). Chronic Δ9-THC administration to uninfected macaques significantly and positively modulated intestinal miRNA expression by increasing the total number of differentially expressed miRNAs from 14 to 60 days p.i. At 60 days p.i., ∼28% of miRNAs showed decreased expression in the VEH/SIV group compared to none showing decrease in the THC/SIV group. Furthermore, compared to the VEH/SIV group, THC selectively upregulated the expression of miR-10a, miR-24, miR-99b, miR-145, miR-149, and miR-187, previously been shown to target proinflammatory molecules. NOX4, a potent reactive oxygen species generator, was confirmed as a direct miR-99b target. A significant increase in NOX4+ crypt epithelial cells was detected in VEH/SIV macaques compared to the THC/SIV group. We speculate that miR-99b-mediated NOX4 downregulation may protect the intestinal epithelium from oxidative stress-induced damage. These results support a role for differential miRNA induction in THC-mediated suppression of intestinal inflammation. Whether similar miRNA modulation occurs in other tissues requires further investigation. IMPORTANCE Gastrointestinal (GI) tract disease/inflammation is a hallmark of HIV/SIV infection. Previously, we showed that chronic treatment of SIV-infected macaques with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) increased survival and decreased viral replication and infection-induced gastrointestinal inflammation. Here, we show that chronic THC administration to SIV-infected macaques induced an anti-inflammatory microRNA expression profile in the intestine at 60 days p.i. These included several miRNAs bioinformatically predicted to directly target CXCL12, a chemokine known to regulate lymphocyte and macrophage trafficking into the intestine. Specifically, miR-99b was significantly upregulated in THC-treated SIV-infected macaques and confirmed to directly target NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4), a reactive oxygen species generator known to damage intestinal epithelial cells. Elevated miR-99b expression was associated with a significantly decreased number of NOX4+ epithelial cells in the intestines of THC-treated SIV-infected macaques. Overall, our results show that selective upregulation of anti-inflammatory miRNA expression contributes to THC-mediated suppression of gastrointestinal inflammation and maintenance of intestinal homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrance C Chandra
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, Louisiana, USA
| | - Vinay Kumar
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, Louisiana, USA
| | - Workineh Torben
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, Louisiana, USA
| | - Curtis Vande Stouwe
- Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Peter Winsauer
- LSUHSC Alcohol and Drug Abuse Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA Department of Pharmacology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Angela Amedee
- LSUHSC Alcohol and Drug Abuse Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA Department of Microbiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Patricia E Molina
- LSUHSC Alcohol and Drug Abuse Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Mahesh Mohan
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, Louisiana, USA
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Abstract
Endocannabinoids are bioactive lipids that have the potential to signal through cannabinoid receptors to modulate the functional activities of a variety of immune cells. Their activation of these seven-transmembranal, G protein-coupled receptors sets in motion a series of signal transductional events that converge at the transcriptional level to regulate cell migration and the production of cytokines and chemokines. There is a large body of data that supports a functional relevance for 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) as acting through the cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) to inhibit migratory activities for a diverse array of immune cell types. However, unequivocal data that supports a functional linkage of anandamide (AEA) to a cannabinoid receptor in immune modulation remains to be obtained. Endocannabinoids, as typical bioactive lipids, have a short half-life and appear to act in an autocrine and paracrine fashion. Their immediate effective action on immune function may be at localized sites in the periphery and within the central nervous system. It is speculated that endocannabinoids play an important role in maintaining the overall "fine-tuning" of the immune homeostatic balance within the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy A Cabral
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
| | - Gabriela A Ferreira
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Melissa J Jamerson
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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Suárez-Pinilla P, López-Gil J, Crespo-Facorro B. Immune system: a possible nexus between cannabinoids and psychosis. Brain Behav Immun 2014; 40:269-82. [PMID: 24509089 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2014.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2013] [Revised: 01/29/2014] [Accepted: 01/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endocannabinoid system is involved in the regulation of the brain-immune axis. Cannabis consumption is related with the development, course, and severity of psychosis. The epidemiological evidence for increased occurrence of immunological alterations in patients with psychosis has not been sufficiently addressed. The aim of this review is to establish whether there is any scientific evidence of the influence of cannabinoids on aspects of immunity that affect susceptibility to psychotic disorder induction. METHODS A comprehensive search of PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE and ISI Web of Knowledge was performed using combinations of key terms distributed into three blocks: "immune", "cannabinoid", and "endocannabinoid receptor". Studies were considered to be eligible for the review if they were original articles, they reported a quantitative or qualitative relation between cannabinoid ligands, their receptors, and immune system, and they were carried out in vitro or in mammals, included humans. All the information was systematically extracted and evaluated. RESULTS We identified 122 articles from 446 references. Overall, endocannabinoids enhanced immune response, whereas exogenous cannabinoids had immunosuppressant effects. A general change in the immune response from Th1 to Th2 was also demonstrated for cannabinoid action. Endogenous and synthetic cannabinoids also modulated microglia function and neurotransmitter secretion. CONCLUSION The actions of cannabinoids through the immune system are quite regular and predictable in the peripheral but remain fuzzy in the central nervous system. Despite this uncertainty, it may be hypothesized that exposure to exocannabinoids, in particular during adolescence might prompt immunological dysfunctions that potentially cause a latent vulnerability to psychosis. Further investigations are warranted to clarify the relationship between the immunological effects of cannabis and psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Suárez-Pinilla
- University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain; CIBERSAM, Biomedical Research Network on Mental Health Area, Madrid, Spain; IDIVAL, Valdecilla Biomedical Research Institute, Santander, Spain.
| | - José López-Gil
- University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
| | - Benedicto Crespo-Facorro
- University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain; CIBERSAM, Biomedical Research Network on Mental Health Area, Madrid, Spain; IDIVAL, Valdecilla Biomedical Research Institute, Santander, Spain
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Nicolaou A, Mauro C, Urquhart P, Marelli-Berg F. Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid-derived lipid mediators and T cell function. Front Immunol 2014; 5:75. [PMID: 24611066 PMCID: PMC3933826 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2014.00075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2013] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Fatty acids are involved in T cell biology both as nutrients important for energy production as well as signaling molecules. In particular, polyunsaturated fatty acids are known to exhibit a range of immunomodulatory properties that progress through T cell mediated events, although the molecular mechanisms of these actions have not yet been fully elucidated. Some of these immune activities are linked to polyunsaturated fatty acid-induced alteration of the composition of cellular membranes and the consequent changes in signaling pathways linked to membrane raft-associated proteins. However, significant aspects of the polyunsaturated fatty acid bioactivities are mediated through their transformation to specific lipid mediators, products of cyclooxygenase, lipoxygenase, or cytochrome P450 enzymatic reactions. Resulting bioactive metabolites including prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and endocannabinoids are produced by and/or act upon T leukocytes through cell surface receptors and have been shown to alter T cell activation and differentiation, proliferation, cytokine production, motility, and homing events. Detailed appreciation of the mode of action of these lipids presents opportunities for the design and development of therapeutic strategies aimed at regulating T cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Nicolaou
- Manchester Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, The University of Manchester , Manchester , UK
| | - Claudio Mauro
- Centre for Biochemical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London , London , UK
| | - Paula Urquhart
- Manchester Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, The University of Manchester , Manchester , UK
| | - Federica Marelli-Berg
- Centre for Biochemical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London , London , UK
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Tantimonaco M, Ceci R, Sabatini S, Catani MV, Rossi A, Gasperi V, Maccarrone M. Physical activity and the endocannabinoid system: an overview. Cell Mol Life Sci 2014; 71:2681-98. [DOI: 10.1007/s00018-014-1575-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2013] [Revised: 01/21/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Robinson RH, Meissler JJ, Breslow-Deckman JM, Gaughan J, Adler MW, Eisenstein TK. Cannabinoids inhibit T-cells via cannabinoid receptor 2 in an in vitro assay for graft rejection, the mixed lymphocyte reaction. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2013; 8:1239-50. [PMID: 23824763 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-013-9485-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2013] [Accepted: 06/05/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoids are known to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) is expressed mainly on leukocytes and is the receptor implicated in mediating many of the effects of cannabinoids on immune processes. This study tested the capacity of Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ(9)-THC) and of two CB2-selective agonists to inhibit the murine Mixed Lymphocyte Reaction (MLR), an in vitro correlate of graft rejection following skin and organ transplantation. Both CB2-selective agonists and Δ(9)-THC significantly suppressed the MLR in a dose dependent fashion. The inhibition was via CB2, as suppression could be blocked by pretreatment with a CB2-selective antagonist, but not by a CB1 antagonist, and none of the compounds suppressed the MLR when splenocytes from CB2 deficient mice were used. The CB2 agonists were shown to act directly on T-cells, as exposure of CD3(+) cells to these compounds completely inhibited their action in a reconstituted MLR. Further, the CB2-selective agonists completely inhibited proliferation of purified T-cells activated by anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 antibodies. T-cell function was decreased by the CB2 agonists, as an ELISA of MLR culture supernatants revealed IL-2 release was significantly decreased in the cannabinoid treated cells. Together, these data support the potential of this class of compounds as useful therapies to prolong graft survival in transplant patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Hartzell Robinson
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA
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Lara-Celador I, Goñi-de-Cerio F, Alvarez A, Hilario E. Using the endocannabinoid system as a neuroprotective strategy in perinatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. Neural Regen Res 2013; 8:731-44. [PMID: 25206720 PMCID: PMC4146074 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2013.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2012] [Accepted: 02/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the most important causes of brain injury in the neonatal period is a perinatal hypoxic-ischemic event. This devastating condition can lead to long-term neurological deficits or even death. After hypoxic-ischemic brain injury, a variety of specific cellular mechanisms are set in motion, triggering cell damage and finally producing cell death. Effective therapeutic treatments against this phenomenon are still unavailable because of complex molecular mechanisms underlying hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. After a thorough understanding of the mechanism underlying neural plasticity following hypoxic-ischemic brain injury, various neuroprotective therapies have been developed for alleviating brain injury and improving long-term outcomes. Among them, the endocannabinoid system emerges as a natural system of neuroprotection. The endocannabinoid system modulates a wide range of physiological processes in mammals and has demonstrated neuroprotective effects in different paradigms of acute brain injury, acting as a natural neuroprotectant. The aim of this review is to study the use of different therapies to induce long-term therapeutic effects after hypoxic-ischemic brain injury, and analyze the important role of the endocannabinoid system as a new neuroprotective strategy against perinatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- I. Lara-Celador
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of the Basque Country, Leioa 48949, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - F. Goñi-de-Cerio
- GAIKER Technology Centre, Bizkaia Science and Technology Park, Building 202, Zamudio 48170, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Antonia Alvarez
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of the Basque Country, Leioa 48949, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Enrique Hilario
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of the Basque Country, Leioa 48949, Bizkaia, Spain
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Cerio FGD, Lara-Celador I, Alvarez A, Hilario E. Neuroprotective therapies after perinatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. Brain Sci 2013; 3:191-214. [PMID: 24961314 PMCID: PMC4061821 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci3010191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2013] [Revised: 02/13/2013] [Accepted: 02/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxic-ischemic (HI) brain injury is one of the main causes of disabilities in term-born infants. It is the result of a deprivation of oxygen and glucose in the neural tissue. As one of the most important causes of brain damage in the newborn period, the neonatal HI event is a devastating condition that can lead to long-term neurological deficits or even death. The pattern of this injury occurs in two phases, the first one is a primary energy failure related to the HI event and the second phase is an energy failure that takes place some hours later. Injuries that occur in response to these events are often manifested as severe cognitive and motor disturbances over time. Due to difficulties regarding the early diagnosis and treatment of HI injury, there is an increasing need to find effective therapies as new opportunities for the reduction of brain damage and its long term effects. Some of these therapies are focused on prevention of the production of reactive oxygen species, anti-inflammatory effects, anti-apoptotic interventions and in a later stage, the stimulation of neurotrophic properties in the neonatal brain which could be targeted to promote neuronal and oligodendrocyte regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Goñi de Cerio
- Biotechnology Area, GAIKER Technology Centre, Parque Tecnológico de Zamudio Ed 202, 48170 Zamudio, Vizcaya, Spain.
| | - Idoia Lara-Celador
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of the Basque Country, 48949 Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain.
| | - Antonia Alvarez
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of the Basque Country, 48949 Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain.
| | - Enrique Hilario
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of the Basque Country, 48949 Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain.
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Abstract
Cannabinoids elicit biological responses through two types of specific receptors, CB1 and CB2. Immune cells including naïve B-lymphocytes are known to selectively express peripheral cannabinoid receptors, CB2. Although the immunosuppressive effects of cannabinoids have become widely known, the mechanisms underlying their effects are not well understood. In this study, we demonstrated that splenic lymphocytes migrated toward a synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist, WIN55,212-2. There is an optimal concentration range for induction of lymphocyte migration and a high dose fails to induce cell migration. Furthermore, a high dose of WIN55,212-2 significantly inhibited CXCL12-induced chemotaxis of lymphocytes. The inhibitory effect was transient and reversible. The inhibition was also observed when purified B-lymphocytes were used for CXCL12-induced chemotaxis. These results provide novel information regarding the cellular mechanisms underlying the effects of cannabinoids on the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Tanikawa
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Immunology and the Global COE Program, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 52–1 Yada, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka, Shizuoka 422–8526, Japan
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Wasik AM, Christensson B, Sander B. The role of cannabinoid receptors and the endocannabinoid system in mantle cell lymphoma and other non-Hodgkin lymphomas. Semin Cancer Biol 2011; 21:313-21. [PMID: 22024769 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2011.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The initiating oncogenic event in mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is the translocation of cyclin D1, t(11;14)(q13;q32). However, other genetic aberrations are necessary for an overt lymphoma to arise. Like other B cell lymphomas, MCL at some points during the oncogenesis is dependent on interactions with other cells and factors in the microenvironment. The G protein coupled receptors cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2) are expressed at low levels on non-malignant lymphocytes and at higher levels in MCL and other lymphoma subtypes. In this review we give an overview of what is known on the role of the cannabinoid receptors and their ligands in lymphoma as compared to non-malignant T and B lymphocytes. In MCL cannabinoids mainly reduce cell proliferation and induce cell death. Importantly, our recent findings demonstrate that cannabinoids may induce either apoptosis or another type of programmed cell death, cytoplasmic vacuolation/paraptosis in MCL. The signalling to death has been partly characterized. Even though cannabinoid receptors seem to be expressed in many other types of B cell lymphoma, the functional role of cannabinoid receptor targeting is yet largely unknown. In non-malignant B and T lymphocytes, cannabinoid receptors are up-regulated in response to antigen receptor signalling or CD40. For T lymphocytes IL-4 has also a crucial role in transcriptional regulation of CB1. In lymphocytes, cannabinoid act in several ways - by affecting cell migration, cytokine response, at high doses inhibit cell proliferation and inducing cell death. The possible role for the endocannabinoid system in the immune microenvironment of lymphoma is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata M Wasik
- Division of Pathology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, SE 141 86 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Pelus LM, Hoggatt J. Pleiotropic effects of prostaglandin E2 in hematopoiesis; prostaglandin E2 and other eicosanoids regulate hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell function. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2011; 96:3-9. [PMID: 21722751 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2011.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2011] [Revised: 06/13/2011] [Accepted: 06/14/2011] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Eicosanoids have been implicated in the physiological regulation of hematopoiesis with pleiotropic effects on hematopoietic stem cells and various classes of lineage restricted progenitor cells. Herein we review the effects of eicosanoids on hematopoiesis, focusing on new findings implicating prostaglandin E(2) in enhancing hematopoietic stem cell engraftment by enhancing stem cell homing, survival and self-renewal. We also describe a role for cannabinoids in hematopoiesis. Lastly, we discuss the yin and yang of various eicosanoids in modulating hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell functions and summarize potential strategies to take advantage of these effects for therapeutic benefit for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis M Pelus
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
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Chouinard F, Lefebvre JS, Navarro P, Bouchard L, Ferland C, Lalancette-Hébert M, Marsolais D, Laviolette M, Flamand N. The endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoyl-glycerol activates human neutrophils: critical role of its hydrolysis and de novo leukotriene B4 biosynthesis. J Immunol 2011; 186:3188-96. [PMID: 21278347 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1002853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Although endocannabinoids are important players in nociception and obesity, their roles as immunomodulators remain elusive. The main endocannabinoids described to date, namely 2-arachidonoyl-glycerol (2-AG) and arachidonyl-ethanolamide (AEA), induce an intriguing profile of pro- and anti-inflammatory effects. This could relate to cell-specific cannabinoid receptor expression and/or the action of endocannabinoid-derived metabolites. Importantly, 2-AG and AEA comprise a molecule of arachidonic acid (AA) in their structure and are hydrolyzed rapidly. We postulated the following: 1) the released AA from endocannabinoid hydrolysis would be metabolized into eicosanoids; and 2) these eicosanoids would mediate some of the effects of endocannabinoids. To confirm these hypotheses, experiments were performed in which freshly isolated human neutrophils were treated with endocannabinoids. Unlike AEA, 2-AG stimulated myeloperoxidase release, kinase activation, and calcium mobilization by neutrophils. Although 2-AG did not induce the migration of neutrophils, it induced the release of a migrating activity for neutrophils. 2-AG also rapidly (1 min) induced a robust biosynthesis of leukotrienes, similar to that observed with AA. The effects of 2-AG were not mimicked nor prevented by cannabinoid receptor agonists or antagonists, respectively. Finally, the blockade of either 2-AG hydrolysis, leukotriene (LT) B(4) biosynthesis, or LTB(4) receptor 1 activation prevented all the effects of 2-AG on neutrophil functions. In conclusion, we demonstrated that 2-AG potently activates human neutrophils. This is the consequence of 2-AG hydrolysis, de novo LTB(4) biosynthesis, and an autocrine activation loop involving LTB(4) receptor 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- François Chouinard
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec G1V 4G5, Canada
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41
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Abstract
The chemokine receptor CXCR3 and its ligands CXCL9, CXCL10 and CXCL11 are involved in variety of inflammatory disorders including multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and sarcoidosis. Two alternatively spliced variants of the human CXCR3-A receptor have been described, termed CXCR3-B and CXCR3-alt. Human CXCR3-B binds CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11 as well as an additional ligand CXCL4. In contrast, CXCR3-alt only binds CXCL11. We report that CXCL4 induces intracellular calcium mobilization as well as Akt and p44/p42 extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation, in activated human T lymphocytes. These responses have similar concentration dependence and time-courses to those induced by established CXCR3 agonists. Moreover, phosphorylation of Akt and p44/p42 is inhibited by pertussis toxin, suggesting coupling to Gα(i) protein. Surprisingly, and in contrast with the other CXCR3 agonists, stimulation of T lymphocytes with CXCL4 failed to elicit migratory responses and did not lead to loss of surface CXCR3 expression. Taken together, our findings show that, although CXCL4 is coupled to downstream biochemical machinery, its role in T cells is probably distinct from that of CXCR3-A agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Korniejewska
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, UK
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42
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Abstract
The Cannabis sativa plant has been exploited for medicinal, agricultural and spiritual purposes in diverse cultures over thousands of years. Cannabis has been used recreationally for its psychotropic properties, while effects such as stimulation of appetite, analgesia and anti-emesis have lead to the medicinal application of cannabis. Indeed, reports of medicinal efficacy of cannabis can been traced back as far as 2700 BC, and even at that time reports also suggested a neuroprotective effect of the cultivar. The discovery of the psychoactive component of cannabis resin, Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC) occurred long before the serendipitous identification of a G-protein coupled receptor at which Delta(9)-THC is active in the brain. The subsequent finding of endogenous cannabinoid compounds, the synthesis of which is directed by neuronal excitability and which in turn served to regulate that excitability, further widened the range of potential drug targets through which the endocannabinoid system can be manipulated. As a result of this, alterations in the endocannabinoid system have been extensively investigated in a range of neurodegenerative disorders. In this review we examine the evidence implicating the endocannabinoid system in the cause, symptomatology or treatment of neurodegenerative disease. We examine data from human patients and compare and contrast this with evidence from animal models of these diseases. On the basis of this evidence we discuss the likely efficacy of endocannabinoid-based therapies in each disease context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L Scotter
- Centre for Brain Research and Department of Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation is a potentially curative treatment for numerous hematological malignancies. The transplant procedure as performed today takes advantage of HSC trafficking; either egress of HSC from the bone marrow to the peripheral blood, that is, mobilization, for acquisition of the hematopoietic graft, and/or trafficking of HSC from the peripheral blood to bone marrow niches in the recipient patient, that is HSC homing. Numerous studies, many of which are reviewed herein, have defined hematopoietic regulatory mechanisms mediated by the 20-carbon lipid family of eicosanoids, and recent evidence strongly supports a role for eicosanoids in regulation of hematopoietic trafficking, adding a new role whereby eicosanoids regulate hematopoiesis. Short-term exposure of HSC to the eicosanoid prostaglandin E(2) increases CXCR4 receptor expression, migration and in vivo homing of HSC. In contrast, cannabinoids reduce hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) CXCR4 expression and induce HPC mobilization when administered in vivo. Leukotrienes have been shown to alter CD34(+) cell adhesion, migration and regulate HSC proliferation, suggesting that eicosanoids have both opposing and complimentary roles in the regulation of hematopoiesis. As numerous FDA approved compounds regulate eicosanoid signaling or biosynthesis, the utility of eicosanoid-based therapeutic strategies to improve hematopoietic transplantation can be rapidly evaluated.
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Graham ES, Angel CE, Schwarcz LE, Dunbar PR, Glass M. Detailed characterisation of CB2 receptor protein expression in peripheral blood immune cells from healthy human volunteers using flow cytometry. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2010; 23:25-34. [PMID: 20377992 DOI: 10.1177/039463201002300103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
It is commonly accepted from gene expression studies that the CB2 receptor is expressed by most cell types of the rodent and human immune system. However, the exact identity of cells expressing CB2 receptor protein in human blood or the abundance of receptors expressed by each immune subset is not well characterised. We conducted a detailed analysis of CB2 protein levels expressed by blood-derived immune cells from healthy human donors. Flow-cytometry was conducted using 4 commercially available anti-CB2 polyclonal antibodies in conjunction with a selection of immune cell specific markers. Across multiple healthy subjects we observed that NK cells, B-lymphocytes and monocytes expressed a higher level of CB2 receptor than CD4+ or CD8+ T-lymphocytes. Neutrophils also expressed a low level of CB2 receptor. NK cells had the greatest variation in CB2 expression levels, whereas for each of the other cell types CB2 levels were relatively similar between subjects. In contrast to other methods, the high sensitivity of flow-cytometry revealed that CB2 receptors are present on resting T-lymphocytes at low abundance in some healthy subjects. These data provide the first detailed analysis of CB2 protein levels in blood leukocyte subsets from healthy donors and identifies the cell types which could be targeted with CB-mimetic drugs in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- E S Graham
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
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Han KH, Lim S, Ryu J, Lee CW, Kim Y, Kang JH, Kang SS, Ahn YK, Park CS, Kim JJ. CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors differentially regulate the production of reactive oxygen species by macrophages. Cardiovasc Res 2009; 84:378-86. [PMID: 19596672 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvp240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS We investigated the mechanism by which cannabinoid receptors-1 (CB1) and -2 (CB2) modulate inflammatory activities of macrophages. METHODS AND RESULTS Real-time polymerase chain reaction showed the predominant CB2 expression in freshly isolated human monocytes. PMA, a potent inducer of differentiation, upregulated CB1 and increased CB1:CB2 transcript ratio from 1:17.5 to 1:3 in 5 days of culture. Immunohistochemistry showed that CB1 protein was colocalized in CD68- and CD36-positive macrophages in human atheroma. Through selective expression of CB1 or CB2 to thioglycollate-elicited peritoneal macrophages, we proved that CB1 and CB2 mediate opposing influences on the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Flow cytometry showed that cannabinoid-induced ROS production by macrophages was CB1-dependent. Immunoblotting assays confirmed that macrophage CB1, not CB2, induced phosphorylation of p38-mitogen-activated protein kinase, which modulated ROS production and the subsequent synthesis of tumour necrosis factor-alpha and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1. Pull-down assays showed that the Ras family small G protein, Rap1 was activated by CB2. Dominant-negative Rap1 profoundly enhanced CB1-dependent ROS production by macrophages, suggesting CB2 Rap1-dependently inhibits CB1-stimulated ROS production. CONCLUSION CB1 promotes pro-inflammatory responses of macrophages through ROS production, which is negatively regulated by CB2 through Rap1 activation. Blocking CB1 together with selective activation of CB2 may suppress pro-inflammatory responses of macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki Hoon Han
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Songpa-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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McGuinness D, Malikzay A, Visconti R, Lin K, Bayne M, Monsma F, Lunn CA. Characterizing cannabinoid CB2 receptor ligands using DiscoveRx PathHunter beta-arrestin assay. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 14:49-58. [PMID: 19171920 DOI: 10.1177/1087057108327329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The authors have characterized a set of cannabinoid CB(2) receptor ligands, including triaryl bis sulfone inverse agonists, in a cell-based receptor/beta-arrestin interaction assay (DiscoveRx PathHunter). The results were compared with results using a competitive ligand binding assay, and with effects on forskolin-stimulated cAMP levels (PerkinElmer LANCE). The authors show good correlation between the 3 assay systems tested, with the beta-arrestin protein complementation assay exhibiting a more robust signal than the cAMP assay for cannabinoid CB(2) agonists. Further assay validation shows that DiscoveRx PathHunter HEK293 CB(2) beta-arrestin assay can be carried out from cryopreserved cell suspensions, eliminating variations caused by the need for multiple cell pools during live cell screening campaigns. These results, and the authors' results evaluating a test set of random library compounds, validate the use of ligand-induced interaction between the human cannabinoid CB(2) receptor and beta-arrestin as an appropriate and valuable screening platform for compounds specific for the cannabinoid CB(2) receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra McGuinness
- New Lead Discovery, Schering-Plough Research Institute, Kenilworth, New Jersey, USA
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Pacher P, Steffens S. The emerging role of the endocannabinoid system in cardiovascular disease. Semin Immunopathol 2009; 31:63-77. [PMID: 19357846 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-009-0145-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2009] [Accepted: 03/31/2009] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids are endogenous bioactive lipid mediators present both in the brain and various peripheral tissues, which exert their biological effects via interaction with specific G-protein-coupled cannabinoid receptors, the CB(1) and CB(2). Pathological overactivation of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in various forms of shock and heart failure may contribute to the underlying pathology and cardiodepressive state by the activation of the cardiovascular CB(1) receptors. Furthermore, tonic activation of CB(1) receptors by endocannabinoids has also been implicated in the development of various cardiovascular risk factors in obesity/metabolic syndrome and diabetes, such as plasma lipid alterations, abdominal obesity, hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and insulin and leptin resistance. In contrast, activation of CB(2) receptors in immune cells exerts various immunomodulatory effects, and the CB(2) receptors in endothelial and inflammatory cells appear to limit the endothelial inflammatory response, chemotaxis, and inflammatory cell adhesion and activation in atherosclerosis and reperfusion injury. Here, we will overview the cardiovascular actions of endocannabinoids and the growing body of evidence implicating the dysregulation of the ECS in a variety of cardiovascular diseases. We will also discuss the therapeutic potential of the modulation of the ECS by selective agonists/antagonists in various cardiovascular disorders associated with inflammation and tissue injury, ranging from myocardial infarction and heart failure to atherosclerosis and cardiometabolic disorders.
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Sarafian T, Montes C, Harui A, Beedanagari SR, Kiertscher S, Stripecke R, Hossepian D, Kitchen C, Kern R, Belperio J, Roth MD. Clarifying CB2 receptor-dependent and independent effects of THC on human lung epithelial cells. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2008; 231:282-90. [PMID: 18556036 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2008.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2007] [Revised: 03/04/2008] [Accepted: 05/01/2008] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Marijuana smoking is associated with a number of abnormal findings in the lungs of habitual smokers. Previous studies revealed that Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) caused mitochondrial injury in primary lung epithelial cells and in the cell line, A549 [Sarafian, T. A., Kouyoumjian, S., Khoshaghideh, F., Tashkin, D. P., and Roth, M. D. (2003). Delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol disrupts mitochondrial function and cell energetics. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 284, L298-306; Sarafian, T., Habib, N., Mao, J. T., Tsu, I. H., Yamamoto, M. L., Hsu, E., Tashkin, D. P., and Roth, M. D. (2005). Gene expression changes in human small airway epithelial cells exposed to Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Toxicol Lett 158, 95-107]. The role of cannabinoid receptors in this injury was unclear, as was the potential impact on cell function. In order to investigate these questions, A549 cells were engineered to over-express the type 2 cannabinoid receptor (CB2R) using a self-inactivating lentiviral vector. This transduction resulted in a 60-fold increase in CB2R mRNA relative to cells transduced with a control vector. Transduced cell lines were used to study the effects of THC on chemotactic activity and mitochondrial function. Chemotaxis in response to a 10% serum gradient was suppressed in a concentration-dependent manner by exposure to THC. CB2R-transduced cells exhibited less intrinsic chemotactic activity (p<0.05) and were 80- to 100-fold more sensitive to the inhibitory effects of THC. Studies using SR144528, a selective CB2R antagonist, verified that these effects were mediated by the CB2R. Marijuana smoke extract, but not smoke extracts from tobacco or placebo marijuana cigarettes, reproduced these effects (p<0.05). THC decreased ATP level and mitochondrial membrane potential (Psi(m)) in both control and CB2R-transduced cells. However, these decreases did not play a significant role in chemotaxis inhibition since cyclosporine A, which protected against ATP loss, did not increase cell migration. Moreover, CB2R-transduced cells displayed higher Psi(m) than did control cells. Since both Psi(m) and chemotaxis are regulated by intracellular signaling, we investigated the effects of THC on the activation of multiple signaling pathways. Serum exposure activated several signaling events of which phosphorylation of IkappaB-alpha and JNK was regulated in a CB2R- and THC-dependent manner. We conclude that airway epithelial cells are sensitive to both CB2R-dependent and independent effects mediated by THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore Sarafian
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 37-131 CHS, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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Abstract
Our current understanding of the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis suggests a prominent role for immune responses from its initiation through its complications. Given the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors worldwide, there is an urgent need to better understand the underlying mechanisms to improve current treatment protocols. A growing body of evidence suggests that endocannabinoid signalling plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of atherogenesis and its clinical manifestations. Blocking CB(1) receptors has been shown to mediate not only weight reduction, but also several cardiometabolic effects in rodents and humans, indicating a potential relevance for the process of atherosclerosis. Activation of CB(2) receptors with Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has been shown to inhibit atherosclerotic plaque progression in mice, mainly by inhibiting macrophage recruitment. Endocannabinoids released from endothelial cells, macrophages or platelets, reduce hypertension in rodents, a major risk factor for atherosclerosis. In addition, anandamide inhibits inflammatory gene expression in endothelial cells, and consequently monocyte adhesion. Conversely, endocannabinoids might also mediate pro-atherosclerotic effects by inducing platelet activation. In conclusion, the precise role of the endocannabinoid system during atherosclerosis is not yet understood. Whether increased endocannabinoid signalling is associated with disease progression and increased risk of acute thrombotic events remains to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Mach
- Division of Cardiology, Foundation for Medical Researches, University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland
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Montecucco F, Burger F, Mach F, Steffens S. CB2 cannabinoid receptor agonist JWH-015 modulates human monocyte migration through defined intracellular signaling pathways. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2008; 294:H1145-55. [PMID: 18178718 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.01328.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Recruitment of leukocytes to inflammatory sites is crucial in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate if activation of CB2 cannabinoid receptors would modulate the chemotactic response of human monocytes. Human monocytes treated with the CB2 agonist JWH-015 for 12-18 h showed significantly reduced migration to chemokines CCL2 and CCL3, associated with reduced mRNA and surface expression of their receptors CCR2 and CCR1. The induction of ICAM-1 in response to IFN-gamma was inhibited by JWH-015. Moreover, JWH-015 cross-desensitized human monocytes for migration in response to CCL2 and CCL3 by its own chemoattractant properties. The CB2-selective antagonist SR-144528, but not the CB1 antagonist SR-147778, reversed JWH-015-induced actions, whereas the CB2 agonist JWH-133 mimicked the effects of JWH-015. The investigation of underlying pathways revealed the involvement of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt and ERK1/2 but not p38 MAPK. In conclusion, selective activation of CB2 receptors modulates chemotaxis of human monocytes, which might have crucial effects in chronic inflammatory disorders such as atherosclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Montecucco
- Division of Cardiology, Foundation for Medical Researches, University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland
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